Cycling Trails in Istria
Croatia is your destination for the ideal Mediterranean holiday. With strikingly beautiful unspoiled landscapes, a thriving culinary scene, and quintessential cultural destinations you expect to find in the “Old World”, Croatia has it all, yet with a relaxed and approachable pace.
Cycling offers an ideal way of experiencing the unique and truly remarkable landscape and culture of Croatia – and you will not have to choose between land and sea.
With over a thousand islands, most unpopulated, dotting the dramatic coastline, Croatia’s archipelago is ideal for touring.
Atop your bike you will experience the full view of Croatia’s beauty – from the dramatic coastline resting high above glittering seas, to verdant forests adorned with crystal rivers, and emerald lakes.
Cross through untouched meadows, rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards enjoying the sunny Mediterranean climate.
Postcard perfect towns and seaside villages welcome you, inviting you to embrace their relaxed and pleasant way of life.
One of our favorite destinations for cycling is Istria.
In Northwestern Croatia, between the gulf of Trieste and the Kvarner bay dangles the heart-shaped peninsula of Istria. Historically controlled by the Venetian Republic, now acclaimed for its award-winning olive oils, prized truffles, excellent wines, and picturesque villages – Istria is a treasure to be discovered!
The landscape of Istria consists of many hills and valleys nestled in the peninsula surrounded by rocky coastline. Small medieval villages often find their home resting atop hills, overlooking the valleys below. Cyclists enjoy the variety of scenery and the cool climate.
In total, cyclists will enjoy over 1600 miles (2600 kilometers) of cycling trails in Istria, stretching like a spider’s web across Istria in all directions. Trails range from easygoing to moderate or challenging.
Enjoy the variety of tracks ranging from peaceful meadows and unpaved forest paths to quiet side roads, to well-trodden lanes. Road cyclists will enjoy the asphalt only routes, although much of Istria can be enjoyed over a combination of road and trails.
As you ride along the coastal routes you may wish to take advantage of the many opportunities to stop and enjoy a swim!
At the end of your ride, enjoy the fresh, local cuisine of Istria. Farm to table, or in many instances, Sea to table, is how it’s always been. Istria is world famous for its wine, house made pasta, award winning truffles, world’s best olive oil & Lidia Bastianich.
Cycling the trails of Istria brings these aspects into a full panorama. The character of Istria becomes an immersive experience.
Trails of Exploration & Discovery
In addition to exploring the cycling trails in Istria, among the hill towns, and the coastal villages that introduce you to the traditional seafaring culture of the region, we share some of our favorite stops worth exploring.
- Visit the Roman Amphitheater in Pula
- The elegant seaside Emperors promenade of Opatija
- World class culinary scene
- Port city of Rijeka named the European Capital of Culture for 2020
- Truffle filled forests
- Magnificent panoramas offer Continuous photo-ops
- Idyllic Seaside town of Rovinj
- Medieval villages perched atop hills
- Olive groves and vineyards
No matter which locations you chose to cycle, you will be surrounded by stunning views, exceptional high-quality culinary experiences, vineyards, and quaint villages offering a view into the enviable lifestyle.
NEW FOR 2020
A new event is launching in October 2020 with the start and finish line in Porec, Istria. The event is expecting as many as 1,000 professional and recreational cyclists.
“In addition to sports facilities, many interesting lectures by renowned cycling coaches and nutritionists from World Tour cycling teams will be organized… We chose Istria because it offers ideal cycling conditions. The routes include beautiful places, excellent infrastructure, as well as facilities for cyclists. In addition, the destination itself is made up of its people, and the overall impression will provide participants an unforgettable cycling experience,” said race director Vladimir Miholjevic”…. “He also points out that there are not many places in the world where 300 kilometers can be driven on closed roads.”
“You have a great track configuration, beautiful sea, and a great climate, which is why we are a proud partner of the event.” said Kjell Carlström, Israel Cycling Academy team director.
The Event spans four days, Thursday October 8 – Sunday, October 11
The race will take place October 10, 2020. The start and finish line is in Poreč, Istria, with three option for race distances; 300k, 235k & 155k.
